The physical parameter pertains to the general characteristics of the water that is used in an industrial setting. Factors such as temperature, color, odor, taste, turbidity, pH level, conductivity, TDS, TSS, and dissolved solids can comprise testing of the physical parameter.  Each can impact water usage, so they must be observed to make sure these qualities fall within the preferred range for the industry that will use the water.

The primary concern with the inorganic and chemical testing parameter is the relative hardness or softness of the water. Hardness refers to the amount of inorganic mineral content found in the water. This can impact usage dramatically if used in manufacturing. For example, hard water will not as readily accept dissolved substances and can lead to deposits on plumbing and equipment given its high mineral content. This parameter involves testing for the concentrations of fluoride, magnesium, chloride, sulfate, calcium, nitrate, phosphate, and alkalinity.

Another parameter that is commonly used in industrial water testing is the organic, nutrient, and demand parameter. This is the analysis of water to determine the presence of substances such as, ammonia, nitrate, phenols, oil, grease, pesticides and nitrate. Dissolved oxygen is another component of this parameter, so testing includes calculation of biochemical oxygen demand or BOD, as well as chemical oxygen demand or COD.

In any industry that involves the manufacture of food or medicine, the bacteriological parameter is key. This parameter involves the testing of water to determine the presence of fecal coliform and assesses the total coliform load. Measuring levels of E.Coli, Total Coliform, Pesudomenas and others.

Some metals are toxic if consumed through water, and in industries in which water will make its way into medicine or the food supply, they can be a concern. The toxic metal testing parameter pertains to the presence of substances in water such as copper, chromium, cadmium, zinc, lead, mercury, iron, arsenic, and manganese.